Typically, when we think of bacteria, we tend to associate these microorganisms with pathogenic or infectious outcomes. But not all bacteria are created equal! Yes, some strains of bacteria, like E. coli, are bad guys, while other strains like L. acidophilus are actually good guys. The latter are known as probiotics, or beneficial bacteria. Consuming probiotics in our diets can help keep our digestive and immune systems running smoothly.

Historically, live bacteria were commonly eaten in food. There is archeological evidence that mankind has used lacto-fermentation as a way of preserving food dating back 1.5 million years. Scientists believe that the human GI tract evolved to adapt to a more or less daily supply of live lactic acid bacteria. We're designed to consume copious amounts of probiotics!

However, with the advent of food refrigeration, pasteurization, and other processing, the ingestion of microorganisms has decreased. In the United States today, we consume very few fermented food products, such as yogurt and sauerkraut. Sterilization of our food supply has limited our potential to ingest beneficial organisms previously consumed on a daily basis − and this may be part of the reason why so many Americans suffer from chronic gut disturbances.

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract is one of the largest contact points between our bodies and the environment. Not only does it serve to physically and chemically break down the foods we consume, it also serves as a barrier to harmful substances which may enter the body through oral consumption. In order to perform these functions properly, the GI tract relies upon a complex ecosystem of bacteria. The composition of this ecosystem, or flora “fingerprint,” is set in childhood and is unique to every individual. Once the flora “fingerprint” is established, those specific types of bacteria are then recognized as normal throughout our lives. The immune system is established in such a way that the body is able to distinguish between these good microorganisms and perilous invaders.

From my years of research on Probiotics, I am pleased to report that numerous studies now show how daily Probiotics added to the diet help with the following:

Click HEREto enjoy my recent interview on This Week in America with host Ric Bratton on DETOX-MADE-SIMPLE: Whole-Body Cleansing to Boost Energy, Heal from the Inside Out & Bring Back Youthful Vitality

Scroll down to find a recipe for Orange Blue Majik Cocktail

When you look in the mirror, are you feeling and looking your very best? If not, maybe it's time to take better care of your body and embark on a detox and rejuvenation program. In case you're not aware, there's an epidemic sweeping America (and worldwide) that I refer to as "internal toxic pollution." Many people suffer from chronic disease and loss of health not only as a direct result of unhealthy conditions environmentally, but internally as well—within the human body. We often think of health as the absence of disease. But, is this truly health? Are we healthy one day and then all of a sudden sick the next? There's a plethora of evidence that demonstrates to us that health or sickness is a process that develops over a period of time (often years) and is based at the cellular level.

Click HEREto read my article WHEN YOU ARE SERIOUS ABOUT WHOLE-BODY DETOXIFICATION and the myriad ways it benefits your body, mind and life.

Our Modern Diets Are To Blame

Is there room for improvement in your diet and lifestyle? It's my belief that our modern diets are to blame for many of our most common ailments. Many people are digging their graves with their knives and forks and are making life and death decisions every time they sit down to a meal or snack. Disease often occurs as a result of an unhealthy lifestyle, which causes the body to become sluggish, congested, acidic, and polluted. Antibiotics, excess sugar, carbonated beverages, chemical food additive and over-the-counter drugs can alter the acid-alkaline balance of the intestinal tract, often killing beneficial bacteria and creating the perfect environment for harmful microbes to grow. Without the "good" or "friendly" bacteria to keep them in check, these "bad" bacteria can eventually overrun our body and severely depress our immune system. Make sure you are taking a good probiotic supplement daily to keep your friendly bacteria flourishing. I take and highly recommend E3Probiotics 50 Billion pictured above.

Mucoid plaque is a slimy gel-like substance that covers the inner lining of the intestines and bowel. Plaque harbors toxins and interferes with nutrient absorption. The colon is known to hold up to 30 or more pounds of old matter and can be packed with undigested foods and disease promoting bacteria.

Additionally, parasites are a toxic menace and can wreak havoc in your body. When faulty digestion keeps food from being properly processed and sent out of the body, undigested food can remain in the body and create fermentation and putrefaction. This can cause parasites and germ life to develop. Parasites thrive in an unhealthy, unclean colon. If the bowel contains partially digested proteins, sugars, or starches, it can harbor an alarming variety of parasites. These parasites can range from microscopic organisms to tapeworms 15 inches long. Not very pleasant, is it?

Improving Digestion

If you are 30 years or older, I highly recommend taking enzymes daily. My favorite plant-based enzyme product, E3Enzymes Supreme Enhanced with E3AFA, helps to break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates in the food we eat, allowing nutrients to be extracted, absorbed, and carried through the blood stream to the organs and cells of the body. These are the best enzymes I've ever taken, and now I wouldn't be without them. I even take them with me when I travel. Undigested food creates a toxic build-up in the body, and this, in turn, causes weight gain and makes it difficult to lose weight. Many friends and clients have also reported to me that they no longer had issues with bloating, gas, halitosis, burping, and indigestion. What I have found personally, and many have also confirmed with me from their personal experiences, is an easier time losing weight and keeping it off once we all started taking E3Enzymes Supreme.

For healthy digestion, I take 2 capsules about 15 minutes before each meal. When I use these enzyme for body cleansing, I take 6 capsules, 3 times per day on an empty stomach either 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. Store them in a cool, dry place; no refrigeration is necessary. I encourage you to try/test the E3Enzymes Supreme for a 3-month period and see how much better you'll feel. I think you will be amazed at the difference in your digestion, energy, and mood!

I am laughing my way to a happy, gleeful day. Laughter is the elixir for my soul. I look for the good in others and bring humor to every circumstance. With joy and lightheartedness, I celebrate this day.